Pc saves woman choking on kebab

A police officer has saved the life of a woman choking on a kebab while on a night out in a County Durham town.

Friends flagged down a police car in Darlington on Saturday night when the woman began choking on a lump of meat.

Pc Colin Brotton, 47, used special medical equipment after mouth to mouth resuscitation failed.

The woman began breathing and was taken to hospital. A senior officer praised Pc Brotton and said the woman would have died without his help.

Two years ago Pc Brotton, based at Newton Aycliffe, choked on food in the police canteen and was saved by a colleague who performed the heimlich manoeuvre.

Screaming women

Pc Brotton, who had recently completed a medical training course, said: "I know from when it happened to me what it feels like it, but this lady was in a far worse state.

"Everyone was screaming and panicking but you have to block that out and get on with the job in hand."

Ch Insp Paul Unsworth said: "This is an excellent example of police work by Pc Brotton.

"The victim was very fortunate that the right man with the right training and the right equipment was on hand and able to help.

"It is likely he will be nominated for a suitable award."